Shrimp Lo Mein

Shrimp lo mein is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout right into your home kitchen. This popular recipe features thick, yellow egg noodles tossed in a garlicky, savory brown sauce and packed with tender shrimp. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, shrimp lo mein can be made in less than 30 minutes. Whether served as a main course or paired with other dishes like beef and broccoli, it’s sure to impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 25 minutes, shrimp lo mein fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of garlic, soy sauce, and fresh vegetables creates a delicious flavor profile that you’ll crave.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy shrimp lo mein alone or as part of a larger meal; it pairs wonderfully with many side dishes.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to switch up the veggies or protein according to your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is loved by both kids and adults, making it a hit for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make shrimp lo mein successfully, having the right tools is essential. Gather everything you need before getting started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large sauté pan
• Medium bowl
• Large pot
• Strainer
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large sauté pan: Allows for even heat distribution while stir-frying, ensuring all ingredients cook thoroughly.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for marinating the shrimp evenly without any mess.
• Strainer: Useful for draining cooked noodles and shrimp effectively to avoid overcooking.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 12 ounces shrimp (peeled and deveined; small or large shrimps are both fine)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon Shaoxing rice apple vinegar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon oil (any neutral oil will do)

For the Noodles and Vegetables

• 16 ounces lo mein noodles (also known as fresh egg noodles)
• 4 ounces napa cabbage (thinly sliced)
• ½ small yellow onion (thinly sliced)
• ½ large carrot (peeled and julienned)
• 1 rib celery (julienned or thinly sliced)
• 2 stalks green onion (cut into 1-inch pieces)

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing rice apple vinegar (optional)
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon oil (any neutral oil)
• 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (regular or light sodium)
• 1½ tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce

How to Make Shrimp Lo Mein

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, combine the shrimps with cornstarch, Shaoxing rice apple vinegar, salt, and oil. Mix well until the shrimps are evenly coated. Set aside while you prepare the remaining ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In another bowl, mix together all ingredients for the lo mein sauce: oyster sauce, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and granulated sugar. Set aside until needed.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the marinated shrimps immediately stirring to separate them. Cook until they turn pinkish orange and curl into an O shape—about 30 seconds to 1 minute for small shrimps and 1 to 2 minutes for larger ones. Remove them using a strainer and set aside.

Step 4: Cook Noodles and Veggies

In the same pot of boiling water, add lo mein noodles. Stir to separate them and cook according to package instructions. In the last 30 seconds of cooking, add vegetables—onion, carrot, napa cabbage, and celery—and cook until just wilted. Drain everything well.

Step 5: Stir-Fry Garlic

In a wok or large sauté pan over medium-high heat, add oil. Once hot, add minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant—about 15 to 30 seconds.

Step 6: Combine Noodles & Veggies

Add cooked lo mein noodles along with vegetables into the wok. Toss everything together before drizzling Shaoxing rice apple vinegar around the wok/pan. Stir-fry for another 15 to 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 7: Add Shrimps & Sauce

To your noodle mixture, add blanched shrimps followed by the prepared sauce. Stir-fry everything together for about two minutes until everything is evenly coated in sauce.

Step 8: Finish & Serve

Drizzle sesame oil over your shrimp lo mein before adding green onions. Stir-fry again for an additional 15 to 30 seconds then transfer it to a serving plate. Enjoy while hot!

How to Serve Shrimp Lo Mein

Serving shrimp lo mein can be a delightful experience, allowing you to get creative with pairings and presentations. Whether you enjoy it on its own or alongside other dishes, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it hot in a large bowl for a cozy dinner that captures the essence of Chinese cuisine.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.

Paired with Protein

• Combine shrimp lo mein with beef and broccoli for a satisfying surf and turf combo.
• Offer it alongside sweet and sour chicken for a diverse taste experience.

Family Style

• Present in a large serving dish for family-style dining, inviting everyone to help themselves.
• Pair with chopsticks and small plates to recreate an authentic dining atmosphere.

With Appetizers

• Start with spring rolls or dumplings as appetizers before enjoying your shrimp lo mein.
• Consider adding a side of egg drop soup for a comforting touch.

How to Perfect Shrimp Lo Mein

To ensure your shrimp lo mein turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and shrimp enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: This method prevents mushy noodles; they should remain slightly firm after boiling.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Stir-frying in batches helps maintain high heat, ensuring even cooking.
• Adjust Sauce to Taste: Feel free to modify the sauce ingredients based on your preference for sweetness or saltiness.
• Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoying shrimp lo mein right after cooking preserves its flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Lo Mein

Pairing side dishes with shrimp lo mein can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Egg Drop Soup: A light, savory soup that complements the richness of shrimp lo mein perfectly.
2. Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with vegetables provide a crunchy texture contrast.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutritional value without overpowering flavors.
4. Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice can offer another layer of taste alongside the noodles.
5. Dumplings: These bite-sized delights are perfect for sharing and add variety to your meal.
6. Chinese Pickled Vegetables: Their tangy crunch offers a refreshing balance to the savory noodles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making shrimp lo mein at home can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the shrimp can lead to bland flavors. Always take time to let the shrimp soak in the marinade for better taste.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long can make them rubbery. Keep an eye on them and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
• Not preparing ingredients ahead: Failing to prep your vegetables and sauce before cooking can slow you down. Chop everything in advance for a smoother cooking process.
• Using cold noodles: Starting with cold or frozen noodles can affect texture. Ensure your lo mein noodles are thawed and loosened before you boil them.
• Neglecting flavor balance: Overloading on sauces without tasting can overpower the dish. Start with smaller amounts of sauce and adjust to your liking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Shrimp lo mein can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Shrimp Lo Mein

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It’s best consumed within 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Shrimp Lo Mein

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil for even heating.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to a pan over medium heat and stir until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of noodles should I use for Shrimp Lo Mein?

You should use fresh egg noodles or lo mein noodles, as they provide the best texture and flavor.

Can I customize my Shrimp Lo Mein?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. You may also substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu.

How do I store leftover Shrimp Lo Mein?

Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

What is the best way to reheat Shrimp Lo Mein?

Reheat it on the stove with a bit of water or broth for moisture, or use a microwave in short bursts, stirring often.

Is Shrimp Lo Mein healthy?

While it contains shrimp and vegetables, it’s good to watch portion sizes due to sodium levels from sauces. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet!

Final Thoughts

Shrimp Lo Mein is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also offers a comforting taste that resembles your favorite Chinese takeout dish. This recipe allows room for customization—feel free to add more veggies or switch proteins based on your preference! Give this delicious dish a try; you might just find yourself craving it regularly!